Module 8 : Specialized Traffic Studies
Lecture 46 : Toll Operation
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
 

Toll Collection System

As discussed earlier, there are three methods of toll collection. Out of them, the manual method is the most time consuming whereas the delays are minimum for electronic system. Following measures are adopted for making the toll collection process a faster one.
  1. A minimum semi-automatic system for toll collection should be adopted.
  2. Collection of toll and recording of data would be made through electronic equipment.
  3. Intercom facility shall be provided between booths and the office of the supervisors.
  4. If any booth is closed for any reason, incoming traffic shall be guided into the adjoining working booth with the help of appropriate signs.

Tollbooth

A tollbooth is that location of the toll plaza where the tax is actually paid. This section lays emphasis on the procedures involved in the construction of a tollbooth.
  1. Toll booths should be made from prefabricated materials or of brick masonry.
  2. Toll booth should have space for seating for toll collector, computer system, printer and cash.

Traffic Signs

The traffic signs inform the users about the approaching toll plaza, prices for different categories. Some of the guidelines laid down are:
  1. The driver should be reminded of a toll plaza at least 1km ahead of its existence. Another reminder should be given at 500m from the plaza.
  2. STOP sign should be marked on the pavement at the toll lanes.
  3. Signs should be installed to inform the users about the toll price for different categories of vehicles.
  4. Electronic signs should be installed over the toll booths to display their operation status.

Road Markings

The road markings help in channelizing the movement of vehicles in a toll plaza. These comprise of the diagonals, lanes and chevron markings. Following specifications are followed while doing the road markings.
  1. Single centre line is provided at the centre of the carriageway at toll gate to demarcate each service lane.
  2. Diagonal markings for central traffic island and chevron marking sat side traffic island shall be provided to guide the approaching and separating traffic.

Lighting

Toll plaza lighting needs due consideration because user should be able to spot the existence of a toll plaza from a distance at night. The specifications for different types of lighting provided at a toll plaza are listed below:
  1. Highway Lighting: Lighting in 100m length on both sides of toll plaza shall be provided to enhance safety and to make drivers conscious of approaching a toll gate.
  2. Canopy Lighting: Higher level of illumination shall be provided at the tollgate and toll booth locations.
  3. Interior lighting: It should be 200-300 Lux as per IS:3646 (Part-II)
  4. High Mast Lighting: IS:1944 (Part I & II) recommends 30 Lux of average illumination on road surface. 30m height of mast is considered suitable [3].